3 Potential Landing Spots For Veteran Pitcher Johnny Cueto

Without any surprise, the San Francisco Giants declined Johnny Cueto's $22 million team option. With this, the 35-year-old will be looking for a new home this offseason. After multiple injury plagued seasons full of struggles, Cueto had a decent campaign in 2021. He wasn't dominant, sure, but he did sport a 7-7 record and 4.08 ERA. That still makes him at least a fifth starter.

Here are three teams who should consider signing him.

Washington Nationals: The Washington Nationals ended the 2021 season with a team ERA of 5.08. Therefore, they are in a position where they should bring in new pitchers. However, due to their 65-97 finish this season, they may have some trouble convincing top-of-the-line talent to go there. Thus, the door could be opened to a veteran like Cueto. Although he isn't an ace anymore, he certainly could be a decent bottom of the rotation guy for them.

Minnesota Twins: The Minnesota Twins can relate to the Nationals, as they too had themselves a disappointing 2021 campaign. They ended the year with a 73-89 record and were at the bottom of the AL Central, which was far below their initial expectations.. Pitching is an area where they be looking to add upgrades and Cueto could be a solid one for them.

Kansas City Royals: The Kansas City Royals shouldn't be ruled out of the Cueto sweepstakes. From a marketing standpoint, having a Cueto reunion could be great, as he ended up being a big part of their 2015 World Series run and fans would love to see him again. He obviously isn't the All-Star he was before when he was there, but he could be a good veteran presence for the team.